It’s officially fall! It’s not really at all that relevant to the books I’m going to tell you about, I just had to share my excitement. You know what else makes me happy? Five of the six books in this blog post are about people of color. What makes me really happy is that I didn’t even try to do that—it’s just representative of what’s being published right now!
“Each of Us a Desert” by Mark Oshiro
I have loved this author ever since they started reading my favorite books and blogging about it; their reactions and insights are delightful. This is Mark’s second novel, a post-apocalyptic Latinx fantasy. Xochitl is a cuentista, a storyteller, tasked with collecting all the stories her people tell her. Taking in their stories, she then magically releases them into the desert to satisfy the god Solís. Yet this is a lonely life, and Xochitl longs for more. As she journeys into the desert in an attempt to escape her role as cuentista, she encounters horrific nightmares made real and a chance at love. Reminiscent of Lowry’s “The Giver,” but with a queer romance and immersive desert setting, this promises to be a fascinating read. Continue reading “The Selector’s Selections: September 2020”
Every five years, the Young Adult Library Services Association publishes its lists of “Outstanding Books for the College Bound.” These lists includes titles that span across five major subject areas: Arts and Humanities; History and Cultures; Literature and Languages; Science and Technology; and, Social Sciences. It is a combination of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and graphic novels. Titles were selected based on criteria including readability; racial and cultural diversity; and, balance of viewpoints.
These recommended books are primarily for high school students looking to strengthen their knowledge in preparation for college; however, they are also appropriate for any lifelong learner wishing to gain a deeper understanding of both classic and contemporary literature. Continue reading “Books for the College Bound”
2020 Teens’ Top Ten Nominees (PDF)
The “Teens’ Top Ten” is a “teen choice” list where young adults nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year. This project is sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association.
Fifteen young adult book clubs from school and public libraries nationwide are responsible for determining a list of nominees for teens to consider. (Does your book club want to get involved? Learn how.)
Based on the recommendations of these teen book clubs, the list of this year’s 25 nominees was announced in April during National Library Week. Readers ages 12-18 are now invited to vote online through October 15 to narrow this list to the top ten selections.
The winning titles will be announced the week of October 19. Be sure to subscribe to our our email newsletter so you can stay updated!
Many thanks to the 235 area young adults who participated in our annual Teen Summer Reading Challenge! As part of this program, we invited youth ages 12-18 to share three book reviews, in addition to reading for 15 hours and completing seven fun, library-related activities.
Of the book reviews that were submitted, here are the most popular authors and series that were reviewed by our teen readers:
For more book recommendations, be sure to check out our list of the Top-Rated Teen Summer Reading Titles. These are the YA books that received a 5-star rating from those who submitted their book reviews online. There is a wide range of titles including new releases like “Stamped” by Jason Reynolds and old favorites like “City of Bones” by Cassandra Clare.
However we may feel about it, the end of summer approaches—but that doesn’t mean you have to give up reading for fun! If you need some ideas of books to squeeze in between assignments, I’ve got you covered.
“Six Angry Girls” by Adrienne Kisner
Let’s start with a senior year that isn’t going as planned. When Raina is dumped by her boyfriend of five years, she quits theater and questions all her college plans. Meanwhile, Millie is forced out of the mock trial club she helped create by the team that’s turned into an all-boys team. Seeking revenge, the two join forces and form an all-girls rival team. Full of knitting, friendship, and plenty of patriarchy smashing, prepare to feel empowered. Continue reading “The Selector’s Selections: August 2020”
Earlier this summer, we invited library patrons of all ages to tell us about themselves in just six words. We had an overwhelming response of nearly 115 submissions! You can view the full album of Six-Word Memoirs on the library’s Facebook page. In the meantime, here is a collection of memoirs from the 24 teens who participated in this online program. Continue reading “Six-Word Memoirs: Teen Showcase”
Do you need help preparing for the ACT test? We have compiled a list of resources to help you navigate this important college entrance exam.
What is the ACT?
The ACT exam is a standardized test required for admission at many colleges and universities. The exam covers four skills areas: English, mathematics, reading and science.
How much does it cost?
It costs $55 take the ACT exam; this cost increases to $70 if you are required to take the writing test as well. A fee waiver is available for low-income students; however, ACT requires that you meet with your guidance counselor to see if you qualify.
Where can I take the ACT exam?
The ACT test is offered at several of locations throughout Boone and Callaway counties, including most public high schools. Search online to find a testing location near you. Continue reading “ACT Test Prep Resources”
Time for more books to add to your to-be-read list! We’ve got an exciting mix of new titles coming in. Don’t forget to check the New Book shelves in your library, and on OverDrive to see all the titles I didn’t have space to write about here!
“Salty, Bitter, Sweet” by Mayra Cuevas
Though my husband can’t stand them, I love watching cooking competition shows. I grew up watching Iron Chef and Top Chef with my dad, so when I saw this title I got pretty excited. Isabella is a teen chef who dreams of owning a restaurant someday. After her Abuela’s death and parents’ divorce, she ends up in France with her dad and his new pregnant wife. She struggles to fit in and balance her different cultures—Cuban, French and American. Instead of dealing with any of her emotions, Isabella throws herself into a prestigious and cutthroat cooking competition. Continue reading “The Selector’s Selections: July 2020”
UPDATE: Watch the recording of this panel discussion now through Wednesday, August 19.
On Wednesday, July 22 the Daniel Boone Regional Library will host an online event to help you plan for a successful college experience. Beginning at 6 p.m., our four panelists will provide pro tips on academics, admissions, entrance exams, financial aid and more!
- Danielle Winton, owner of Memory Strategies, will offer tips to aid teens with learning and remembering information.
- Melanie Studer, author of “College Bound: The Ultimate List of Conversations to Help Your Teen Through High School,” will discuss some key conversations for parents to have with their college-bound teen.
- Kristie Beck, owner of Savvy Strategies, will discuss preparing for the ACT and the college application process.
- Sarah Moreau, director of Central Bank’s ProsperU program, will talk about how to pay for college.
2020-21 Truman Award Finalists (PDF)
The Truman Readers Award honors a book that is selected by Missouri junior high students. To be eligible to vote, students must read at least four of the finalists. Voting will occur at participating schools early next spring. While the winner won’t be announced until April 2021, this is a great list of summer reads for students in grades sixth through eighth.
“City of Ghosts” by Victoria Schwab
Ever since her near-fatal drowning, Cassidy has been able to pull back the “Veil” that separates the living from the dead and see ghosts. When the family travels to Scotland, Cass and her personal ghost companion, Jacob, are about to find out that a city of old ghosts can be a very dangerous place indeed. Continue reading “2020-21 Truman Award Finalists”
